Off-duty police officer beaten, robbed in Loop

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Police have released a surveillance image taken at a Loop parking garage in hopes of identifying the suspects accused of beating an off-duty sergeant.

The attack happened Thursday afternoon at the parking garage located at 172 W. Madison. The sergeant, who was not in uniform, was beaten on the 12th floor by a group of men, officials say.

The sergeant was taken to Northwestern Hospital in serious but stable condition. He suffered extensive head and face injuries and is in serious condition, according to officials.

There may be as many as 10 attackers involved in the incident, officials said.

"That completely surprises me. I use this garage at least once a month, sometimes twice at all hours," said Matthew Jakubowski, a parking garage customer.

The sergeant's service weapon was stolen by the attackers, police said, but not his wallet or badge. The offenders then fled after two men came to the sergeant's aid.

It's unclear if the attackers knew the victim was in law enforcement before approaching him.

The incident has left some customers worried.

"If it can happen to a man carrying a gun who's with a couple of other people, it can happen to absolutely anybody. And that's really the problem. That's really the concern," said David O'Keefe, parking garage customer.

A surveillance camera captured the attackers in an SUV with damage to the front passenger-side.

Police are canvassing the area for witnesses, looking at surveillance video and interviewing the victim. Police have not released any further information about the men they're seeking.

"It definitely puts you on your guard," said O'Keefe.